What Jesus Did! 'We Need a Miracle' — Matthew 14:34-36

Thursday, July 17, 2025

After [Jesus and the disciples] had crossed the lake, they landed at Gennesaret. When the people recognized Jesus, the news of his arrival spread quickly throughout the whole area, and soon people were bringing all their sick to be healed. They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed.
— Matthew 14:34-36 NLT

Key Thought

While Jesus is in a very busy time in his ministry, a time when he wants to focus on the disciples and their preparation for his departure, he still makes time for the demanding crowd. He is there to help. With the crowds, he is compassionate. There is not much chance that they can or will understand who he is or what he is about until after the resurrection. But still he ministers to them and cares for them even though, maybe especially though, they cannot give him anything in return. Not only does he have power, he also has compassion. Rather than acting like a spoiled modern athlete who doesn't want to give autographs, Jesus makes himself available to the crowd to give of himself.

Today's Prayer

Loving God and Father of all people, soften my heart to be more aware of, patient with, and actively compassionate with those who are broken. Give me eyes to see more than just my own problems. Teach me to serve in a way which honors you and blesses others. Please give me wisdom to know when and how to help those you place in my path, especially when they are in need. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.

Related Scripture Readings

  • Mark 1:38-45
  • James 2:14-17
  • 1 John 3:18

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Illustration

Illustration of Matthew 14:34-36 NLT — They begged him to let the sick touch at least the fringe of his robe, and all who touched him were healed.

About This Devotional

What Jesus Did! is a series of one-year devotional guides through each gospel, using one short scripture passage each day and following the Gospel in sequential order. Each devotional consists of a scripture passage and a reflection and a prayer which open up the day's scripture and show how it challenges you to live for Jesus.

What Jesus Did! is written by Phil Ware and is available in book form.

Scripture quotations are taken from the Holy Bible, New Living Translation, copyright ©1996, 2004, 2007, 2013, 2015 by Tyndale House Foundation. Used by permission of Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Carol Stream, Illinois 60188. All rights reserved.

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